The Milwaukee Bucks have been struggling to make a statement in the postseason ever since their championship. Sadly, the franchise fell victim to unfortunate injuries as the two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo missed the last two postseasons due to injuries. During the 2023 playoffs, the Greek Freak suffered a back injury in Game 1 of the first round. Still, he managed to play Games 4 and 5 but the outcome was an unexpected gentleman sweep. On the other hand, Giannis missed the entirety of the first-round series against the Pacers.

Even though tragedy struck during crucial times in the last two years, Giannis has not failed to deliver during the regular season. So much so, that in the last five years, Antetokounmpo has finished top five in MVP voting. However, this Wolves legend does not rank Giannis atop the Eastern Conference. In fact, the Big Ticket, Kevin Garnett believes that the Freak is the fourth-best player in the East. Fans as well as critics questioned Garnett’s take on Giannis. And defending the Freak, was a former Laker and seven-time champion, Robert Horry.

“You know, when you talk about Giannis, his nickname, he’s a Freak. I think it’s all, when it comes to talking about the best players, it’s your vision. It’s what you see. You know, for me, I don’t think he’s the third-best player, I think he’s the best player in the East. You know, you guys might think he’s second, fourth, fifth, so it’s just how you look at it. Because when you think about size, speed, and strength and what you can do on the court when he’s healthy… Can Embiid stop him? Nope. Can Tatum stop him? Nope. And it’s just like, but he can turn around and stop those two guys. That’s why I say he’s to me, the best player in the East when he’s healthy.”, said Horry in the recent episode of the Big Shot Bob Podcast.

As a two-time MVP putting up serious numbers each year, Giannis has indeed made the case for the best player in the East. Guys like Brunson, Brown, Embiid, and Tatum are also among the top players in their Conference. But when it comes to proving the same in the postseason, the Freak has always run out of luck to stay healthy. Quite frankly 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and  6.5 assists, Giannis did not even receive a single MVP vote. Nevertheless, a healthy Bucks team has proven to be a title contender in the past.

However, it’s been two years since Giannis was healthy during the playoffs. What can the Bucks expect when competing in the playoffs next year?

Giannis Antetokounmpo and company will face new talent

In the last two years, teams like the Knicks, the Pacers, the Cavaliers, and the Magic have been pretty solid. Regardless, the Bucks remain one of the major threats in the East. Considering the Bucks to play a healthy season next year, they’ll be facing the upcoming talent including Brunson’s Knicks, Haliburton’s Pacers, and Mitchell’s Cavs. Earlier, Giannis and the Bucks went up against the Celtics and the Heat who were among the title contenders.

But this may be a new challenge for the squad. They’ve already played the Pacers who made the Conference Finals this year. On the other hand, the Sixers have also become the favorites to dominate in the playoffs with the addition of Paul George. With the stage set for Giannis to prove himself yet again, it will be interesting to see the Greek Freak take on the emerging squads of the East next year. The only obstacle Giannis has to look out for would be ensuring a healthy season.

What are your thoughts on Giannis Antetkounmpo’s position in the East? Do you think he’s the best player in his Conference? Let us know in the comments.

Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.